2025 Legislative Session
When the 2025 legislative session begins in Hartford on January 8, a proposed neonicotinoids bill will be introduced identifying problems, regulatory gaps and solutions.
New UConn Report Shows High Rising Levels of Neonics in Connecticut Rivers
The Problem
Harmful Effects: A new UConn report highlights alarming increases in neonic concentrations in Connecticut rivers. Peer-reviewed studies, USGS, and EPA confirm neonics devastate insect populations, birds, and listed species, and can be harmful to human health.
No requirement to demonstrate a verification of need to use a neonicotinoid product or neonic coated-seeds.
Regulatory Gaps:
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EPA lacks sufficient resources to address the known harmful impacts of neonics in a timely manner, completing only 5% of its annual registration reviews. (EPA)
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EPA’s risk assessments systematically underestimate the risk of neonics, failing to account for environmental persistence, cumulative and synergistic toxicity, and how systemic insecticides expose wildlife in contaminated soil and plants.
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EPA exempts neonic-treated seeds from regulation, despite evidence of extensive contamination and harm resulting from leaching and dust escaping during planting.
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EPA's Insecticide Strategy does not address non-agricultural uses of neonics, such as on turfgrass and ornamentals, which can contribute substantially to environmental contamination.
The Solution
Require verification of need and waivers for uses on lawns and ornamental landscaping and on corn and soybean seeds
Work with Connecticut Farmers to support the proposed bill. Farmers supported the New York and Vermont bills.
Praise from Farmers and Growers in New York
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Governor Hochul’s Press Release
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NY Farm Bureau: "[Gov. Hochul] sought input from all sides and reached consensus on a balanced approach that ensures farms will have safe risk management tools that they need to grow food for our state. . . . The Governor once again demonstrated her willingness to find a reasonable pathway forward to support New York agriculture."
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NY Corn and Soybean Growers Association: “On a very complicated and consequential issue, Governor Hochul showed great leadership in protecting the agricultural industry while advancing environmental policy. Our association believes strongly in our role as stewards of the environment and following science backed policy. Governor Hochul struck the right balance for our industry and we look forward to continuing to work with the Administration on the implementation of the new law to properly protect both our environment and industry.”
Concerns Expressed by Farmers and Growers in Vermont
VT: "The language in the New York bill protects pollinators, addresses environmental concerns, and provides a safety net for farmers as they transition to alternative seed and seed treatments."
Dispel concerns about this HB6916 bill:
Common Concerns about HB6916 An Act Concerning the Use of Neonicotinoids